The Brave Heart Volunteers Endowment Fund was initiated in 2013 through the foresight and generosity of David and Margaret Steward, who made a substantial gift of $50,000. Since then, the funds have grown nearly tenfold and the

endowment is now managed by the Juneau Community Foundation. The Stewards recently pledged another generous gift of $10,000, with an invitation for others to contribute as well, to ensure that every Sitkan facing terminal illness, isolation, and grief will continue to have the support they need.

What does a gift to the endowment mean?

A simple analogy is to think of BHV as a flower garden and every donation is a beautiful flower in the garden. General donations, along with fundraising and grant monies, are the garden “annuals," like marigolds and petunias. They last only for a season and require replanting each year, but their steady vibrant blooms brighten the garden and bring fulfillment for the entire season. Whereas, gifts to the endowment are the “perennials,” like forget-me-nots and Sitka roses. Although they need time to mature, with proper care and planting, they regrow, multiply, and last for many years. Their lovely blossoms also extend the garden’s colorful season and make an impact year after year. Overall, a mix of annuals and perennials creates a successful, healthy garden, and with attentive cultivation, will continue to offer a bountiful return.

Your gift helps us to help others

It's quite fitting that the Brave Heart Volunteers office is situated among the beautiful gardens of the Sitka Pioneers Home. Thanks to the kindness of all our donors, we are able to serve Sitka annually and we aim to be here perennially. Your contribution to the BHV Endowment Fund secures our longevity and (1) safeguards the BHV Mission to provide companionship, respite, and education to those facing loneliness, grief, and end of life; (2) helps finance staffing and program needs; (3) allows BHV to offer free services permanently.

Thank you for making a contribution to the BHV Endowment Fund today!